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Australian Reptile Park Somersby

4.6
·7k reviews·Somersby, Australia

Get up close with Australia's unique wildlife, from venomous snakes to free-roaming kangaroos, at this interactive park.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow
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Have lunch with Elvis the crocodile

Australian Reptile Park Somersby

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Get up close with Australia's unique wildlife, from venomous snakes to free-roaming kangaroos, at this interactive park.

4.6
(7k reviews)

"A unique experience where you get really up close with some very rare and fabulous animals, who were clearly loved."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Bluey/Bingo in Advance

These popular meet-and-greets sell out fast! Book online to guarantee your spot.

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the amazing animals! :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Venom Milking Program

Venom Milking Program

Witness skilled staff extract venom for antivenom production. A unique and educational insight into Australia's dangerous reptiles.

Reddit
Free-Roaming Kangaroos

Free-Roaming Kangaroos

Interact with friendly kangaroos and wallabies that roam freely throughout designated areas. A highlight for many visitors.

InstagramReddit
Giant Reptiles & Native Animals

Giant Reptiles & Native Animals

Marvel at an impressive collection of snakes, crocodiles, koalas, and Tasmanian devils.

Instagram+1
Bluey & Bingo Meet-and-Greet

Bluey & Bingo Meet-and-Greet

A massive hit with families, meet and greet popular characters Bluey and Bingo for a memorable photo opportunity.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Special Experiences

Popular 'Keeper for a Day' programs and special animal encounters, like meeting Bluey and Bingo, often require advance booking. Check the park's website to secure your spot and avoid disappointment, especially during school holidays. Reddit

Embrace the Hands-On Nature

This park is known for its interactive experiences, from feeding kangaroos to venom milking demonstrations. Wear comfortable shoes and be ready to get up close with Australia's unique wildlife. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Crowd
Low
When
School holidays, weekdays
Why
Special events & activities
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends, afternoons
Why
Shows and talks are on
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Exploring HQ with Connor 🧡💚 #reptileencounters #australianwildlife #connor #barkingowl
@reptile.encounters
318K likes • 2.4M views

Book Bluey/Bingo in Advance

These popular meet-and-greets sell out fast! Book online to guarantee your spot. Reddit

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the amazing animals! :athletic_shoe:

What’s in the secret room 🤔 Snakes!🐍 😅 i’m sure you could’ve guessed that one!👏 these lovely ladies, were stretching and hanging out together. Always awesome to show you guys a glimpse of the zoo life😁🙌🙌 halfway through the week! • • • • • • • #reptile #animals #zoo #zoolife #zookeeper #reptilelovers #animallovers #almostfriday #cuteanimals #giant #giantsnake #snake #snakes #tik #tok #tiktok #tikt...
@thereptilezoo
92.3K likes • 2.8M views
The Australian Reptile Park is the best place for family fun these school holidays! Get up close and personal with iconic Aussie animals, see exciting and educational animal shows, and make memories with the kids 💚 🐨🐍🐊🦘 📍Australian Reptile Park, Somersby (just an hour from Sydney or Newcastle) #schoolholidays #australianreptilepark #australia #seeaustralia #lovecentralcoast #feelnsw @australia
australianreptilepark
744 likes • 35K views

Check Show Schedules

Don't miss the reptile shows and feeding demonstrations for exciting insights. Reddit

Pack a Picnic

Lovely picnic areas available, saving you money and offering flexibility. Reddit

Feeding the ancient dinosaur at the @australianreptilepark 🐢 🥕 Sure looks good! 📍 Somersby, Australia 🇦🇺 📲 Follow us! @safarigallery 🦁 @travelusareels ⠀ ~~~~~~ 🎥 Featured Creator in this post is: ⭐️ Insta @australianreptilepark ⭐️ TTok: australianreptilepark 📲 Please check them out & follow them! ~~~~~~ Follow our USA Account @usaondisplay 🇺🇸 ~~~~~~ ⠀ The Australian Reptile Park is Australia’...
safarigallery
16K likes • 323.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Bluey/Bingo in Advance

These popular meet-and-greets sell out fast! Book online to guarantee your spot. Reddit

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the amazing animals! :athletic_shoe:

Check Show Schedules

Don't miss the reptile shows and feeding demonstrations for exciting insights. Reddit

Pack a Picnic

Lovely picnic areas available, saving you money and offering flexibility. Reddit

Consider Keeper Programs

For an immersive experience, 'Keeper for a Day' programs are highly recommended. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Australian Reptile Park for its unique, hands-on experiences and the opportunity to get up close with Australian wildlife. The venom milking program and free-roaming kangaroos are frequently highlighted as memorable attractions. While generally positive, some visitors have noted that certain experiences may not be running due to staff availability.

"We had an awesome time! It’s a real immersive experience with the animals. We fed Roos and emus. We went to the Galapagos tortoise, koala and reptile talk. All were fun and educational. They are doing a great thing here and it’s nice to know your ticket money goes toward the animals and conservation. All the employees were helpful and you can tell they care about what they do."

Kristen Green

"We had a lovely time today. We came especially for the Bluey experience and it was definitely well worth it. My daughter was so happy to meet Bluey and Bingo and have a photo taken with them. We were not rushed at all and she was given the chance to give them each a hug.
We loved seeing the koalas and the Galapagos turtles the most. The interaction with the kangaroos was unforgettable. Got to see the cranky Croc but were unable to see the show as it was too crowded.
It was so lovely to be out in nature. Loved to learn about the breeding programs they had. The staff were very friendly. Definitely recommend"

Jessica Sanchez Tatangelo

"We mainly visited the park for the Bluey show but everything else was great too. The place is nice, not too crowded and kids friendly. It's not huge like other zoos which makes the walking easier with young kids. It has a playground with shaded seats for parents. The shows were quite fun and entertaining and staffs were friendly and knowledgeable."

Sharmin Hatami

What People Like

Up-close animal encounters
Venom milking program
Free-roaming kangaroos

What People Dislike

Occasional unavailability of experiences

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Australian Reptile Park is located in Somersby, NSW, about 71 km north of Sydney. The easiest way to get there is by car via the M1 Pacific Motorway. Public transport options are limited, so driving is recommended for most visitors. Instagram

Yes, ample free parking is available for visitors at the Australian Reptile Park. Instagram

While public transport to Somersby is possible, it's not the most convenient. You'd likely need to combine trains and buses, which can be time-consuming. Driving is the most straightforward option. Instagram

The park is situated on the NSW Central Coast in Somersby, making it a very accessible destination for those living in or visiting the region. Instagram+1

From Sydney, take the M1 Pacific Motorway north and take the exit for Somersby. Follow the signs to the Australian Reptile Park. It's well-signposted. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary, but generally, you can expect to pay around $40-$50 for adults and $25-$35 for children. Family passes are often available. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing and any online booking discounts. Reddit

Yes, you can purchase tickets at the gate upon arrival. However, booking online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons or for special events, to secure your entry and potentially save time. Instagram

Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and group bookings. Keep an eye on their website for any special offers or promotions, particularly around holidays. Reddit

The park is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's always a good idea to verify the exact hours on their official website before your visit, as they can change seasonally or for special events. Instagram

Absolutely! The Bluey and Bingo meet-and-greets are extremely popular and often require advance booking. Check the park's website for availability and booking details to avoid disappointment. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors rave about the free-roaming kangaroos, the venom milking demonstrations, the giant reptiles like crocodiles and Galapagos tortoises, and the native Australian animals like koalas and Tasmanian devils. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, the park hosts regular animal shows and feeding demonstrations, including a popular reptile show. Check the daily schedule upon arrival to plan your day. Reddit

It's fantastic for kids! They offer interactive experiences like feeding wallabies and kangaroos, and special 'Keeper for a Day' programs. The Bluey and Bingo meet-and-greet is a huge hit. InstagramReddit

Yes, the park is known for its hands-on experiences. You can feed kangaroos and wallabies, and some keeper programs offer closer interactions. InstagramReddit

This program offers an immersive experience where kids (and adults) get to assist keepers, learn about animal care, and have VIP access to talks and photos. It's highly recommended for an educational and memorable day. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe on-site offering a range of food and drinks. However, many visitors opt to bring their own picnic to enjoy in the designated areas. Reddit

Absolutely! The park has lovely picnic areas, and bringing your own food is a popular and cost-effective option for families. Reddit

The cafe typically offers standard cafe fare such as sandwiches, snacks, hot food, and beverages. It's a convenient option if you prefer not to pack your own lunch. Instagram

While specific menus can vary, most park cafes offer some basic vegetarian options. It's advisable to check with the cafe staff upon arrival for the most up-to-date choices. Instagram

Yes, besides the main cafe, there are usually smaller kiosks or vending machines selling drinks and snacks throughout the park. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Anywhere with the animals! The free-roaming kangaroos, the venomous snakes, and the larger reptiles like crocodiles offer great photo opportunities. The Bluey and Bingo meet-and-greet is also a popular photo moment. InstagramReddit

Yes, you can take photos of the animals from designated viewing areas. For closer interactions and photos, consider the 'Keeper for a Day' programs or special encounter sessions. Reddit

Many enclosures are designed for good viewing. For snakes and smaller reptiles, getting close might require a zoom lens. The larger reptiles are generally easier to photograph. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to avoid disturbing the animals. Always check for signage. Instagram

Mornings can be great as animals are often more active. Overcast days can also provide softer, more even lighting, reducing harsh shadows. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Australian Reptile Park is a fantastic family day out. The free-roaming kangaroos are a huge hit, allowing kids to get up close and personal. The Bluey and Bingo meet-and-greet is a must-book for younger children, creating magical memories. InstagramReddit

Consider booking a 'Keeper for a Day' program for an extra special, educational experience. The park also features picnic areas and a playground, making it easy to spend the whole day. Don't forget to check the schedule for exciting animal shows and feeding demonstrations! Reddit

🐍 Reptile Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by the scaly and slithery, the Australian Reptile Park offers an impressive collection of reptiles. You can witness the venom milking program, a truly unique and vital aspect of the park's work, and see some of Australia's most dangerous snakes up close. Reddit

The park houses a diverse range of species, from large crocodiles and Galapagos tortoises to various native Australian snakes. It's a great opportunity to learn about their behaviors, habitats, and the conservation efforts in place to protect them. Instagram+1

🚗 Day-Trippers from Sydney

Located just an hour north of Sydney, the Australian Reptile Park is an ideal day trip destination. It offers a refreshing escape from the city with a focus on unique Australian wildlife. Instagram+1

Plan your visit to include the venom milking demonstration and the reptile show for a comprehensive experience. The interactive elements, like feeding the kangaroos, make it a memorable stop on your journey. Remember to check show times to maximize your visit. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Venom Milking Program: A Lifesaving Mission

The Australian Reptile Park is renowned for its vital venom milking program. This isn't just a show; it's a critical operation that supplies venom to laboratories for the production of life-saving antivenom. Visitors can witness this process firsthand, gaining a unique appreciation for the dangerous beauty of Australian snakes. The skilled keepers carefully extract venom from species like the Inland Taipan and Eastern Brown Snake, which are among the most venomous in the world. Reddit

This program highlights the park's commitment to conservation and public safety. By understanding the importance of venom extraction, visitors can better appreciate the role the park plays in protecting both humans and wildlife. It's a fascinating glimpse into a crucial aspect of Australian zoological science and a testament to the park's dedication to its mission. Reddit

Interactive Animal Encounters: Beyond the Enclosure

What sets the Australian Reptile Park apart is its emphasis on interactive experiences. Unlike many zoos where viewing is passive, here you can get up close and personal with the animals. The free-roaming kangaroos and wallabies are a major draw, allowing visitors to walk amongst them and even feed them. InstagramReddit

For a more structured interaction, the park offers 'Keeper for a Day' programs and special animal encounters. These experiences provide children and adults with a deeper understanding of animal care and behavior, often including opportunities for photos and direct engagement. The popularity of events like the Bluey and Bingo meet-and-greet underscores the park's success in creating memorable, family-friendly moments. InstagramReddit

Conservation and Education at the Core

The Australian Reptile Park is more than just an attraction; it's a hub for conservation and education. They are actively involved in breeding programs for native Australian species, contributing to their survival. The park educates visitors about the importance of these animals in the ecosystem and the threats they face. Reddit

Through engaging shows, informative talks, and interactive displays, the park aims to foster a greater appreciation for Australia's unique wildlife. The venom program, for instance, directly contributes to public health by enabling antivenom production. This dual focus on entertainment and education makes a visit both enjoyable and impactful. TikTokReddit